Magnetic MRO has partnered with a technical school in Latvia to launch a new workforce training program for aircraft engineers. The program aims to boost skills for Magnetic’s current employees and grow future workforce.
Launched in partnership with the Riga Transport and Telecommunications Institute (TSI Riga), Magnetic Academy expects to train between 60-100 new aircraft engineers in the next few years. The program will consist of two parts: a fast-track for apprentices, followed by a Part 66 training course for experienced mechanics.
According to Ene Krinpus, HR manager at Magnetic Group, the program combines practical experience in Magnetic MRO’s maintenance hangars under the supervision of experienced mentors with theoretical training in its Tallinn classroom. She adds that the program is unique in offering opportunity to people with no previous aviation experience.
“Magnetic Academy provides an opportunity for those who want to pursue a career in aviation but lack the necessary background or education. We believe it will open the door to aviation for many talented people,” says Krinpus.
The fast-track program will have approximately 16 courses, ranging from the basics of physics and aircraft construction to technical English and aviation law. For experienced technicians moving toward becoming a licensed B1 or B2 engineer, Magnetic Academy offers a full European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approved module program. The courses will be offered under TSI Riga’s Part 147 certification.
Magnetic MRO currently employs around 450 people in Tallinn and says it will need around 100 new aircraft mechanics and engineers in the coming years. “Our aim is to fill a critical gap in the skilled workforce that is essential for Magnetic MRO’s development and growth,” says Magnetic Group CEO Risto Maeots.
In addition to growing its technical personnel, Krinpus says Magnetic Group is also focusing on leadership development. “Our first 12-month leadership development program, Learning2Lead, is about to end shortly with 40% of the participants already being promoted to the next leadership level or [having] received a bigger job scope,” she says. “We have also strengthened the cooperation on a pan-Baltic level with different vocational schools and universities to offer more traineeship opportunities throughout the organization.”
Magnetic also operates an EASA Part 147 certified Magnetic Training subsidiary, which offers technical training programs and consulting to the industry. Its offerings include aircraft type training, specialized aviation programs such as aviation legislation and human factors, and project management for EASA Part 147 certification projects.
